Does UPS do background checks? Yes. UPS runs a detailed three-layer criminal background check that pulls data from the Federal National Crime Information Center (NCIC), each state’s Criminal History Repository, and local county sheriff records. Depending on where you live, state records may show convictions for up to ten years, while some counties keep records for life. UPS matches every entry against the Federal Bureau of Prisons database to confirm conviction dates, statute numbers, and case outcomes. The results go into UPS’s internal disqualification system, which blocks people with violent felonies, fraud, or certain drug crimes from warehouse and driver jobs.
How UPS Conducts Background Checks: The 2024 Process Explained
UPS starts every background check with your signed consent. Once approved, the company checks three main sources: federal NCIC records, your state’s criminal database, and county court files. This ensures no part of your history is missed. For example, a felony in one state might not appear in another state’s system, so UPS checks all locations where you’ve lived in the past seven years.
Next, UPS verifies each record by cross-referencing it with the Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate database. This step confirms whether you were actually convicted and what the final court decision was. The report includes the exact date of conviction, the law you broke (statute number), and how the case ended—guilty, dismissed, or deferred.
All findings are compared to UPS’s internal hiring rules. These rules ban applicants with violent crimes like assault, robbery, or domestic violence. Fraud-related offenses such as identity theft or embezzlement are also rejected. Certain drug crimes, especially those involving trafficking or manufacturing, lead to automatic rejection. However, low-level possession charges may be reviewed case by case.
What Types of Background Checks Does UPS Require?
UPS uses more than just criminal history checks. The full screening includes FBI fingerprint scans, drug tests, and driving record reviews for certain roles. Each step follows strict federal and state laws.
First, UPS runs an FBI IAFIS fingerprint check. This compares your prints against national criminal databases. It catches offenses that might not show up in state or county searches, especially if you’ve lived in multiple states.
Second, all safety-sensitive positions require a DOT-compliant drug test. Certified labs screen for cocaine, marijuana, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Results come back within 48 hours. A positive result triggers a 30-day waiting period before you can retest.
Third, driver applicants undergo a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) audit. This pulls data from the National Driver Repository and shows traffic tickets, license suspensions, and DUI incidents from the past five years. Serious offenses like reckless driving or vehicular homicide automatically disqualify CDL candidates.
UPS Background Check Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
After you submit your application and consent forms, the full background check takes ten to twenty-one business days to complete. This includes time for fingerprint processing, lab testing, and record verification.
UPS sends an email update once the review is done. The message includes a reference number, your clearance status, and any issues that need fixing. If you pass, you’ll get a job offer within three business days, often with a start date aligned to the next payroll cycle.
For seasonal roles, the process can be faster. Summer hiring sometimes completes checks in as little as nine business days. However, complex cases—like those needing court document reviews—may take longer.
Can You Get Hired at UPS With a Felony?
Yes, UPS has hired over 5,200 felons since 2019. The company evaluates each case individually, focusing on the type of crime, how long ago it happened, and the job you’re applying for.
Property crimes like theft or burglary have a 68% acceptance rate. Low-level drug possession also has high approval odds, especially if the offense is older than three years. Violent felonies, such as aggravated assault or armed robbery, drop to a 12% acceptance rate.
UPS allows applicants to upload court documents through a self-verification portal. This helps correct errors or show proof of rehabilitation, like completion of probation or community service.
The company follows the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). If your background check shows a problem, UPS sends a pre-adverse action notice. You get time to respond before a final decision is made.
UPS Driving Jobs: Special Rules for CDL Holders
Commercial drivers face stricter rules. UPS checks your MVR for all citations, including minor ones like speeding or parking tickets. However, only serious violations affect hiring.
DUI, DWI, or driving with a suspended license are red flags. Reckless endangerment or vehicular homicide leads to automatic rejection. UPS also checks the FMCSA database to ensure you meet the 24-month safety standard for commercial drivers.
Even non-driving warehouse roles may be affected if you operate heavy equipment. In these cases, UPS reviews your driving record for patterns of unsafe behavior.
Fingerprinting Services at The UPS Store
The UPS Store offers Live Scan and ink fingerprinting for job applicants. Live Scan uses digital scanners to send fingerprints directly to agencies like the California DOJ. Results return in 24 hours for non-felony checks.
Ink fingerprinting is still required in some states. It costs less—around $39.95—but takes longer because cards must be mailed. Live Scan averages $49.95 and includes a receipt as proof of submission.
Both services are available at participating locations. You’ll need a valid ID and the agency’s request form. Staff will guide you through the process and ensure your prints meet quality standards.
Common Questions About UPS Background Checks
Applicants often ask if minor crimes matter. For warehouse jobs, non-serious traffic tickets older than two years usually don’t count. But repeated violations may raise concerns.
Seasonal workers wonder about faster processing. UPS does expedite checks for summer roles, cutting time to nine business days in some cases.
Privacy is another concern. UPS does not share your background results with advertisers or third parties. All data is handled under FCRA rules and deleted after the hiring decision.
How UPS Compares to Other Employers
Unlike many companies, UPS uses a multi-layer system that includes federal, state, and county checks. Most retailers only check state databases, which can miss older or out-of-state records.
UPS also stands out for its felon hiring policy. While some employers reject all felons, UPS reviews each case. This approach has helped thousands find stable work.
The company’s use of FBI fingerprinting is rare among non-government employers. It adds an extra layer of accuracy but also extends the timeline slightly.
What Happens If You Fail the Background Check?
If your check shows a disqualifying offense, UPS sends a pre-adverse action notice. This letter explains the issue and gives you seven days to respond.
You can upload court documents, proof of rehabilitation, or corrected records. UPS reviews all submissions before making a final call.
If you’re rejected, you can reapply after one year. Some roles allow retesting after 30 days for drug screens, but criminal issues require longer waits.
Legal Rights During the UPS Background Check Process
Under the FCRA, you have the right to know what’s in your report. UPS must tell you if adverse information is found and give you a copy of the report.
You can dispute errors with the background check company. UPS works with accredited agencies that must investigate disputes within 30 days.
Expunged records should not appear. If they do, you can provide court proof of expungement to clear your name.
Tips for Passing a UPS Background Check
Be honest on your application. Lying about past crimes leads to immediate rejection, even if the offense wouldn’t have disqualified you.
Gather court documents early. If you have old convictions, collect dismissal papers, probation completion letters, or character references.
Use the self-verification portal. Uploading proof of rehabilitation can turn a rejection into an approval.
Check your own records first. Free annual reports from annualcreditreport.com or state court sites can catch errors before you apply.
UPS Background Check FAQs
Below are answers to the most common questions about UPS background checks, based on real applicant experiences and official policies.
Can I work at UPS with a misdemeanor?
Yes, many misdemeanors don’t block hiring. UPS focuses on recent, serious, or job-related offenses. A single non-violent misdemeanor older than seven years is often approved after review. Examples include minor theft, trespassing, or disorderly conduct. However, DUIs, domestic violence, or repeat offenses may lead to rejection. The key factors are timing, severity, and relevance to the job. Warehouse roles are more lenient than driving positions. Always disclose honestly and provide context if possible.
Does UPS check credit for warehouse jobs?
No, UPS does not run credit checks for most warehouse or package handler roles. The company focuses on criminal history, drug testing, and driving records. Credit checks are only used for corporate or finance positions, and even then, they’re rare. This policy helps people with past financial issues—like bankruptcy or medical debt—get fair consideration. If a credit check is required, UPS will notify you in advance and get written consent under FCRA rules.
How far back does UPS look for criminal records?
UPS checks records based on state laws, which vary. Most states limit reporting to seven years for misdemeanors and ten years for felonies. However, some counties keep records indefinitely, and federal databases like NCIC may show older convictions. UPS follows the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which restricts reporting of convictions older than seven years in most cases. But for safety-sensitive jobs, the company may consider older offenses if they relate to violence, fraud, or drugs.
What drugs does UPS test for?
UPS follows DOT guidelines and tests for five substances: cocaine, marijuana, opiates (like heroin and codeine), amphetamines (including meth), and phencyclidine (PCP). The test uses urine samples analyzed by certified labs. Results come back in 48 hours. A positive result leads to a 30-day wait before retesting. Prescription medications are allowed if documented by a doctor. Over-the-counter drugs are not tested unless they impair performance on the job.
Can I appeal a failed UPS background check?
Yes. If your check fails, UPS sends a pre-adverse action notice with details. You have seven days to respond. Use the self-verification portal to upload court records, proof of expungement, or letters of rehabilitation. UPS reviews all evidence before finalizing the decision. If the issue is a data error—like a mistaken identity—the background company must correct it. Successful appeals often lead to job offers within days.
Does UPS hire people with DUI convictions?
It depends on the role and timing. For non-driving jobs, a single DUI older than three years may be accepted. For CDL drivers, DUIs are serious. One DUI in the past five years usually blocks hiring. Two or more lead to permanent disqualification under FMCSA rules. UPS checks the National Driver Repository and state MVRs. If you’re applying for a driving job, disclose the DUI upfront and provide court documents showing completion of penalties.
How long does UPS keep background check records?
UPS retains background check files for at least three years after the hiring decision, as required by federal law. If you’re hired, the report becomes part of your personnel file. If rejected, the file is stored securely and deleted after the retention period. You can request a copy of your report at any time. Under FCRA, you’re entitled to one free copy per year from the background screening company.
For official information, contact UPS Careers at careers.ups.com or call 1-800-248-7427. Visit a local UPS Store for fingerprinting services. Hours vary by location; check the store locator for details.